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A look back at 2016

As some might have expected, this year went pretty poorly, perhaps even worse than last year. However, each time there was a different cause, and each time I learn more about myself. Perfection comes with its perks but also its downsides, especially with laziness. I am pretty able of focusing on a single thing for hours without taking a break, but that can also break my rhythm in the long run. Due to this, I usually procrastinate since I usually want to do something in one go, from start to finish… And I also cannot focus on anything else at the same time.

So that’s also one of the reasons I haven’t been showing up in social media at all… I guess I don’t hold pride in the actions I took this year, so I haven’t shared a single thing. I tried becoming a big popular on Twitch, in an act to socialize with people with similar hobbies as mind, and of course, hopes of monetizing from it. However, it didn’t work out at all, effectively costing me a lot of precious time I could’ve put into mental aid or another part-time job.
Although I’m pretty positive I wouldn’t be able to keep working while studying, that’s what caused me to drop out this year to begin with.
I do realise I was pretty reliant on having a fixed schedule. I felt energetic. Now, after having stopped with the stream, I often feel lost with the spare time I gained from it.

Nowadays, I’m mentoring the Discord (Skype-ish) server subreddit r/LearnJapanese to keep my Japanese learning spirit alive. Every day I face questions from beginner to intermediate level, and it feels pretty good to be responsible for guiding all these self-teaching students the right way. It’s getting livelier by the day so if you’re interested in that, please come and check it out:https://discord.gg/0eIsYvFQul270V1L

I mean, through socialising on Twitch, I did get some freelance translating projects every now and then, so it’s not as if it’s been only downsides this year. But for now, I’m just mentally resting and preparing to finally graduate from university. Therefore I’m going on a trip. A backpacking trip. To Japan. For a month. If you want to meet me in person, feel free to send me a message or write a comment below.

Dutch student Japanologist, and founder of Mandoran. Likes everything about Modern Japan, including anime, manga, visual novels, bowling and gaming. Frequently found as translator or translation checker of fansub groups. His portfolio can be found on his dropbox website. Follow his actions on Twitter or send him a message at chrouya@gmail.com .